LONDON — British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Wednesday that launching a trade war with the United States "cannot be the first response of the United Kingdom," as Washington prepares to confirm a sweeping new package of tariffs.

Speaking during Prime Minister’s Questions in the House of Commons, Starmer said that his government is taking a "calm, pragmatic approach" while preparing for all possible outcomes.

“A trade war is in nobody’s interests,” he told lawmakers, emphasizing that "constructive talks are progressing" with the US on a broader economic prosperity agreement.

“We are working with all industries and sectors likely to be impacted. Our decisions will always be guided by our national interest,” Starmer said.

The prime minister also underscored the importance of reaching a trade deal with the US, calling it "really important at this moment," and confirmed ongoing coordination with sectors potentially affected by Washington’s tariff moves.

In response to a suggestion by Liberal Democrats leader Ed Davey to work jointly with European and Commonwealth allies to confront US tariffs, Starmer dismissed the idea, arguing that confrontation is not the right first step.

"It’s not sensible to say the first response should be to jump into a trade war with the US. That cannot be the first response of the United Kingdom," he added.

US President Donald Trump is expected to unveil a comprehensive new tariff policy later Wednesday, which could significantly impact transatlantic trade relations. — Agencies